Nepal Travel Trek

Chulu East is comparatively smaller peak than Chulu West, which is lying south east of Chulu West. The peak first ascended by German Expedition team in 1955. The peak together with the Chulu West forms an integral part of the Manang Himal that turns in included in the Damodar Kund Himal. The peak is hard and familiar for adventure seekers.

The attractions

This trek offers challenging and adventurous trekking around Annapurna peaks with an ascent of a technically straightforward peak, Chulu East at 6200 meter. The summit of Chulu East provides the most breathtaking views of Annapurnas II, III and IV, Gangapurna, Glacier Dome, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho Peak and Manaslu. We start the trek from Besi Sahar after a 6-7 hrs drive from Kathmandu. The trail ascends gradually along the Marshyangdi river valley and eventually leads to the village of Pisang where we leave the main trail and head up the Chulu East base camp. Fully physically fit and acclimatized, we then attempt Chulu east. Following an ascent, we rejoin the main trail and head towards Kali Gandaki valley crossing a high Thorung La pass at 5416 meter.
Thereafter, we make final descent to Jomsom and take a flight to Kathmandu via Pokhara. The trek provides a great range of landscapes and cultures as we progress from terraced rice fields of Besi Sahar to lush green foothills through alpine forests and barren arid region of the Manang Valley. Along the trekking trail as we walk past fascinating villages, we witness varied cultural settings and ethnic diversity. Most of the climbing will involve walking roped together, including a glacier crossing. Any physically fit individual can undertake this trip anytime in March to May and September to November.                 

Best season to Climbing: In the spring (March to May) and autumn (Semptember to November) when the weather is temperate and the skies are clear.

Trek Grade: Introductory level treks and climbs: Strenuous, non-technical: This trip is aimed at first time trekkers and non-climbers. It is an advantage to have done some over-night camping trips before but it is not required. A strong spirit of adventure and a willingness to have a go are what you'll need, in addition to a good level of fitness

Maximum altitude: 6200 m at Chulu East summit.

Length of period: The trek and climb including the preparation in Kathmandu can be completed in a minimum of 3 weeks, starting in Kathmandu and finishing in Kathmandu. If a few extra days are allowed for it is then possible to deal with the bad weather and acclimatization and for optional days to make summit.  It is advisable to spend 24 – 25 Days along this route to fully experience the full scenic, cultural splendor and get more chances of summit.

Accommodations:  Tea House Trek (from Beshisahar to pisang and Hunde to Besisahar , Camping Arrangement in 2-person tent for 7 days ( Pisang to Hunde ) .

Legal Preparation:  
Permit fee for the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) is needed. The fee structure is as below:

1. 4 Pax  - US$ 350
2. 4 + 1 pax = 5 – US$ 350 +40 = US$ 390
3. 4 + 2 Pax = 6  - US$ 350 +80 = US$ 430
4. 4 + 3 Pax = 7 – US$ 350 + 120 = US$ 470
5. 4 + 4 Pax = 8 - US$ 350 + 160 = US$ 510
6. 8 + 1 Pax = 9 – US$ 510 + 25 = US$ 535
7. 8 + 2 pax = 10 – US$ 510 + 50 = US$ 560
8. 8 + 3 Pax = 11 – Us$ 510 + 75 = US$ 585
9. 8 + 4 Pax = 12  - US$ 510 + 100 = US$ 610

An amount of US$ 250 should be deposited to NMA as Garbage deposit to get permit to Chulu Peak. The refund shall be made as per the provisions made by NMA.

Additional Information:
The Summit of Chulu can be dangerous at times, especially during unexpected snowfall and Altitudes sickness so potential climbers must make sure that they are well prepared and equipped for all eventualities.  Our experienced Climbing Sherpa /guides will help you to avoid potentially unsafe situations.
Summit day will require an extra-special effort – a big day 10+ hours will be needed as we set off early in the morning for the summit and return all the way to base camp. You will have to be quite strong for this, but building on your good pre-trip fitness, the trekking during the previous weeks should tune your body.

 

Outline Itinerary -21 Days

Day 01	Arrival at Kathmandu; transfer to the Hotel
Day 02	Rest day at Kathmandu for official procedure
Day 03	Kathmandu to Besisahar; Drive
Day 04	Beshisahar  to Ghermu Bahundanda; trek
Day 05	Bahundanda to Chamje; trek
Day 06	Chamje to Dharapani; trek
Day 07	Dharapani to Chame; trek
Day 08	Chame to Pisang; trek
Day 09	Pisang to Julu (3500m): trek
Day 10	Rest at Julu: Acclimatization
Day 11	Julu to Yak Kharka: Trek
Day 12	Yak Kharka to Base Camp (5000m)
Day 13	Rest at Base Camp: Acclimatization
Day 14-17	Base Camp (5000m) to Chulu East Sumit (6200m) to Base Camp: Trek
Day 18	Base Camp to Manang (3511m): Trek
Day 19	Manang to Thorung Phedi: Trek
Day 20	Thorung Phedi to High Camp to Muktinath via Thorung La (5416m): Trek
Day 21	Muktinath to Jomsom:  Trek
Day 22	Jomsom to Pokhara: Fly
Day 23	Pokhara to Kathmandu: Drive / Fly
Day 24	Departure

Price – US$ per Person
Price Includes: -
1. Transport from the international airport to your hotel at your arrival/Departure/ Domestic airport Arrival/Departure.
2. A fully organized trek/climb with

1. Tents.
2. Foam mattresses.
3. Porters.
4. Cook.
5. Climbing guide
6. Sherpa staff.

3. Peak Permit.
4.  Garbage Deposit.
5. A snow-stake.
6. Peak Climbing rope.
7. All ground Transportation and flight for Nepali staff, their insurance, daily wage, Meals and accommodation. 
8. 3 night Hotel Accommodation in star level hotel in Kathmandu (double room basis) Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu.

Price Excludes:

1. You will be responsible for soft drinks, bottled water, alcoholic drinks, tips to staff (Highly Recommended, Especially for Porters), any insurance coverage and your climbing gear. You can rent crampons, ice axe, sleeping bags, down/fleece jackets etc in KTM to equip yourself for the trek.
2. Meals and Accommodations in Kathmandu (We can arrange Hotels for you)
3. Any others not mentioned in ” Price include”

 

Detailed Itinerary
Day 01 / Day 02:  Arrive Kathmandu, transfer from airport to hotel, preparation for trek.
On arrival in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, you will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel by our staff. After coming to terms with your new environment your trip leader will hold a trip briefing at the hotel. They will explain where things are in Kathmandu, what will happen in the next couple of days in preparation for the trip and check through your gear to ensure the smooth running of the trek and climb.

Days 03: Kathmandu to Besisahar: Drive
We leave Kathmandu early in the morning by private bus/car. It is a scenic drive with several picturesque gorges and occasional glimpses of mountain peaks. We will stay Overnight in a lodge at Besi Sahar.

 

 

Days 04: Besisar to Bahun Danda: trek
From Besi Sahar the trail descends to the marshyangdi river then climbs steeply through the deep gorge. It moves up and down through fields, tropical forest and small hamlets to the Gurung village of Khudi at 825m. It is from this region that the British Army recruits many young men into the Gurkha regiment, and we occasionally meet soldiers who are home from Britain on vacation. From Khudi, The trial heads northwards up the Marsyangdi valley and get our first views of Himalchuli (7893m) and Peak 29 (7836m).  We cross the Marshyandi River on a wide suspension bridge, which brings us to the village Bhulebule. From Bhulbhule we trek up the east bank of the river to the lush green paddies fields around Ngati. We again cross the river on a high suspension bridge and make the final steep climb to the village of Bahundanda (1320m). Prayer flags and chortens can now be seen, indicating the Tibetan influences in the region.

Days 05: Bahun Danda to Chamje; trek
Today as we trek up the valley the sides will begin to narrow and increase in height. After walking through several villages the trail descends to the valley floor and crosses a steel suspension bridge across the Marshyangdi to the village of Syange. There is a steep climb from here to Chamje.

 

 

 

Days 06: Chamje to Dharapani; trek
The trail passes through an oak forest and over a ridge to arrive in a wide valley with the village of Tal. Soon after leaving this village the climbs the narrowing valley and descends to cross the river at Dharapani.

 

Days 07: Dharapani to Chame; trek
We climb to the village of Bagarchhap, walk through a forest and then follow the river to Chame.Today, there are great views of Annapurna II (7,937m) and Lamjung Himal (6,932m) up the valley and if you look back you will be able to see the Manaslu (8,154m) and Peak 29 (7,833m).

 

Days 08: Chame to Pisang; trek
The trek undergoes a dramatic change of scenery as we leave behind the dense forests and fertile agricultural land of the lowlands and enter a high and arid Himalayan region. Sparse stands of oak, birch and pine dot the landscape and in the fields there are potatoes, wheat and corn, which are the staples of the region. The people are Tibetan in appearance and rows of elaborately carved mani stones line the trail. To respect the local beliefs these stones, as well as prayer wheels and other Buddhist icons on the trail, should always be passed in a clockwise direction keeping them to your right. As we progress the valley adopts a distinctive glaciated ‘U’-shaped appearance and in front of us raise a series of tremendous rock slabs. We climb up to the village of Pisang (3185m) with its prayer flags and flat-roofed Tibetan buildings.
Day 09: Pisang to Julu (3500m): Trek
Leaving the main trail above the village of Pisang, we ascend Chegaji Khola Valley towards Chulu East Base Camp. A gentle ascent through scattered chortens, scrub juniper and stunted pines takes us to the small hamlet of Julu, sitting on the west bank of the river. We chose an appropriate campsite showcasing enchanting views of majestic Himalayan peaks.
Day 10: Rest day at Julu: Acclimatization
On this day, we utilize it to our maximum benefits. We take a proper rest to rejuvenate our adventure spirit and build up good health. After relaxation, we can even explore village of Julu and get more insight into its cultural setting. We can also enjoy the splendid natural vistas.
Day 11:  Julu to Yak Kharka: Trek
As we walk away from Julu, the trail crosses Cheggi Khola and ascends gradually up the west bank. Soon after trekking for more than an hour, the trail faces a valley and then we encounter a stone hut surrounded by apple trees. We are now bestowed with a stunning view up the side valley that reaches up towards Chulu West. As the valley ends, 500ft cliff stands on the way displaying spectacular sight of waterfalls cascading down the cliff. The trail further steepens and winds through a small meadow. On the way, we come across goat and yak pastures. As the day progresses, we come close to Yak Khare. At last, we reach Yak Khare for a leisurely lunch. We set a camp at a site which overlooks stunning myriad of snow capped peaks.
Day 12: Yak Kharka to Base camp (4200m): Trek
We follow the trail wending through steep pastures to a convenient hollow where the meadow merges into rock and scree. Then, there appears the base camp. Eyeing high above, spectacular views of Annapurna range stretches as far as our eyes can capture.
Day 13: Rest at Base camp: Acclimatization
We take a day off from trekking for complete acclimatization. This gives us time to prepare and sort out our trekking gear.
Days 14-17: Base camp to High camp (5000m) & Chulu East Summit (6200m) to Base Camp: Trek
After well acclimatized, we move up to the high camp and there we rest atop the terminal moraine of the Chulu glacier. The trail up to the high camp follows scree and snow slopes. Resting at the high camp, we take a plenty of time to relax and prepare equipment and strategies for the next day. Two days have been set aside for ascending Chulu East. On the day of climbing Chulu East, we make an early start across the undulating glacier as the trail takes snow and ice slopes. As we continue ascending, several peaks come en route. Eventually we run out of mountain at a small snow dome with steep slopes falling away on all sides. At this point, our high camp diminishes to toy-town stature and climbing to such an altitude gives us a feeling of sitting on top of the roof of the world. After we scale Chulu East Summit and have our share of celebrating this glorious victory, we descend along the steep slopes to the high camp. After refreshment and rest, we head back to base camp passes. For those who do not wish to climb Chulu East, they can simply stroll to Base Camp to enjoy spectacular views of Annapurnas and indulge in more exploration around the base camp.
Day 18: Base Camp to Manang (3511m): Trek
We return to the main trail and head towards Manang. We continue treading along the cultivated fields and after a while village of Bryaga accommodating a splendid monastery appear before us. On trekking down to Manang, we embrace heavenly vistas of Annapurna range - Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna [7455m] and Tilicho Peak [7134m]. We camp at the fortified villages of friendly Manang people for the night. Manang is a fascinating medieval village of just over 500 flat-roofed houses.
Days 19: Manang to Thorung Pheti:  trek
It is a about eight hours walking to Yak Kharka.Leaving Yak Kharka we pass through a few lodges at Letdar and after crossing the river there is a climb to Thorong Phedi. In the afternoon it is a good idea to go for a short walk. Or, you can climb up to High Camp for the better mopuntain view and to make shorter the next day as well.

Days 20: Thorung Pheti to High Camp to Muktinath via Thorung La Pass (5416m): trek
We leave Thorong Phedi before first light and begin making our way up the frozen shattered scree path. Initially the path ascends quite steeply but as dawn breaks and the sun raises over the cobalt-blue horizon the angle eases and the trail becomes enjoyable. As we climb higher the views become more impressive and we can look back towards the Chulu peaks and across to Manaslu. The trail undulates over many false summits before finally reaching the colorful collection of prayer flags which adorn the top of the pass at 5416m. Here we are treated to a fantastic view down towards Muktinath in the Kali Gandaki valley – an arid and desolate Tibetan landscape. Above us rises the fluted peak of Thorong Phedi and beyond lies the entire Annapurna range. If the weather is good we can linger on the pass taking numerous photographs and greeting other trekkers making this arduous crossing. Eventually it’s time to leave and we descend steeply down a long series of switchbacks and scree. Ski poles will be found useful on this section to protect our knees from the pounding they’ll be getting as we drop 1600 meters to Muktinath. The village is situated in a pleasant grove of poplar trees and has a selection of comfortable lodges where beer and soft drinks are available. There is also a fascinating Gompa and Hindu temple where naturally occurring gas venting out of the ground burns as a small perpetual flame, making this a pilgrimage site of great importance.

Days 21: Muktinath to Jomsom: trek
After breakfast it is well worth going to visit the temples above the village of Muktinath. The trail passes through a beautiful arid landscape in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, this is starkly different to green and lush terrain at the start of our trek a week ago!
We descend steeply to the green oasis of Kagbeni. It is a fascinating place to explore with narrows streets and old buildings. One needs a special permit to follow the path north of Kagbeni along the Thak Khola to Upper Mustang. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki down to the town of Jomsom and then on to the pretty village of Marpha set amongst apple orchards.

Days 22: Jomsom to Pokhara: fly
We take an early morning flight to Pokhara. It is a spectacular flight along the Kali Gandaki Gorge and provides wonderful views of both the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. We then catch a flight back to Kathmandu.
Days 23: Pokhara to Kathmandu; drive / fly
Drive by tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu around 06-07 hours (depending upon road conditions). Another option is to drive by private car or take the 25-30 minutes flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu.

Day 24: Depart Kathmandu
Our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. (Or stay longer for short tours such as game drive at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, mountain biking etc).